How is socialization best defined?

Socialization is best defined as the lifelong process of conforming to societal standards because it encompasses how individuals learn and internalize the norms, values, and behaviors accepted by the society around them. This process is ongoing and occurs throughout a person’s life as they encounter different social groups, institutions, and experiences, which influence their behavior and beliefs.

This understanding of socialization emphasizes that it is not confined to a specific period, such as childhood, nor is it simply about adopting beliefs without external influences, which fails to encompass the complex ways individuals interact with their environment. Additionally, while the exchange of ideas between different cultures is an important aspect of social life, it does not capture the broader and more personal aspect of how individuals incorporate societal norms into their identities over time.